Nebraska Synod ELCA
Event
Program Description:
There are times when one needs to move the basics. There are times when we are called to tap into the imagination of God! This course seeks to do both. In this 4-week study, we will drive into the foundational book by Dietrich Bonhoeffer called “Life Together.”
We will explore what Bonhoeffer maintained was the core of Christian Community and its implications for the individual disciple – that would be YOU!!!
In some ways this course will be a challenge because Bonhoeffer does not beat round the bush on God’s expectations of us. We are to hold each other and ourselves accountable to grace and a love which is abundant.
Week #1: Introduction / Community – In the first week we shall consider a number of directions and precepts that Scriptures provide us for our life together under the Word.
Week #2: The Day with Others – Bonhoeffer is well aware of the cycle of the day. The stillness of the late evening – the experience of the sunrise – the day unfolding – the day in its midst – the day ending – nightfall – quiet. We explore the relationship this cycle has on our community life and how we work and pray together.
Week #3: The Day Alone – Bonhoeffer suggests that some will seek fellowship because they are afraid to be alone. But being alone is not possible in that it is real time with God. In a parallel to community life in the cycle of day, here we will explore our individual life of work and prayer alone with God. This may be tough but worth it!
Week #4: Ministry / Confession and Communion – How about these sub-titles —- The Ministry of Holding One’s Tongue – The Ministry of Meekness – The Ministry of Listening – The Ministry of Helpfulness – The Ministry of Bearing – The Ministry of Proclaiming – The Ministry of Authority. Bonhoeffer will further offer that following this core understanding of Ministry with lead to – Breaking Through to Community – Breaking Through to the Cross – Breaking Through to Certainty. This session is guaranteed to be a wild ride!
Pastor Ernesto Medina is a seasoned Wanna-be Mystic. Some say he is crazy (but in a good way). Ernesto is passionate about the Good News of Jesus and knows the time has come to re-imagine a new way to share the classic narrative of love. At his core he is Evangelical and understands that a new language must be developed for the church to do its thing – otherwise the institution dies. He will offer his study and experience and offer a faithful bridge of the tradition and of vision.
Dates: Sundays – January 5, 12, 19 and 26, 2025
Times: 4:00-5:15 pm Central/3:00-4:15 Mountain
Format: Life Together is a perfect online option for the cold month of January. Join on Zoom. Link will be emailed to registered participants after January 2, 2025
Target Audience: Dietrich Bonhoeffer is one the classics for many Lutherans which sometimes scares those who consider themselves beginner theologians. Pastor Ernesto will engage adults of all ages along with his comfortable teaching style. This is a book for our times.
Supplies Needed: Participants should have note taking supplies and a copy of the book Life Together.
Continuing Education Credits: This course constitutes 4 hours of continuing education credit.
Costs: $20/person – Participants will need to have a copy of Bonhoeffer’s book Life Together. Check your local library or purchase from your favorite book supplier.
Registration Deadline: Registration deadline is Thursday, January 2, 2025. No refunds after January 2, 2025.